Residents knit white ribbon that’s larger than life!

A group of Hume residents known as the Crafty Sisters has knitted hundreds of white ribbons for display across the municipality.

The white ribbons have been attached together to form a two-metre high ribbon, which will be initially exhibited at Hume City Council’s White Ribbon Day event.

The makers are part of a group that gathers twice a week at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre, as part of an active ageing program.

Hume Mayor, Councillor Helen Patsikatheodorou, has congratulated the Crafty Sisters on their creation.

“Many of the women in this group have been touched by family violence, and they sought to make a ribbon that sent a message to all corners of our municipality,” Cr Patsikatheodorou said.

“The Crafty Sisters want abuse towards women and children to stop, and they have dedicated many hours to produce the large white ribbon.

“This craft piece is the product of women who care very deeply for the wellbeing of people in our community, and I’m sure that many will be comforted by the meaning behind this ribbon.”

Various Hume buildings will host the large ribbon across the next 12 months.

Cr Patsikatheodorou said attendees at Hume’s White Ribbon Day event would be able to purchase knitted and crocheted ribbons from the group.

“The Crafty Sisters shall sell individual ribbons at the Broadmeadows Town Hall on Wednesday 25 November 2015 at 3pm,” she said.

“All money raised from the sale of the ribbons will support programs targeted at victims of domestic violence.

“I hope people will want to display a ribbon in their own home as a reminder that there is never an excuse for violence.”

Hume’s White Ribbon Day event will be addressed by the Australian of the Year, Rosie Batty, the Victorian Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Fiona Richardson, and the Governor-General of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd).

Cr Patsikatheodorou encouraged anyone who would like to join the Crafty Sisters to speak with a staff member at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

“The Crafty Sisters group meets every Monday morning and Friday afternoon, and the team welcomes new members,” she said.

“It costs $1 to attend a session, and the fee covers materials, snacks, and a cup of tea or coffee.”

The Active Ageing program at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre includes a range of regular events for Hume’s senior citizens.

Its current schedule offers carpet bowls, water exercise, chair dance, and yoga-laties, which combines yoga and pilates.

Active Ageing also coordinates excursions and visits to live musical shows.